biome – a region where plants, animals, and environment are suited to one another natural vegetation – typical plant life in an area unaffected by humans plant community – the mix of plants that naturally grow in an area environment – physical conditions of the natural surroundings

Earth’s Biomes

rainforest – a large, dense forest in a hot, humid region (tropical or subtropical). savannas – huge tropical grasslands chaparral/scrub – areas with small evergreen trees and low bushes desert – the driest of the dry climates, either hot or cold deciduous forest – trees that shed their broad leaves when winter approaches coniferous forest – trees that have cones and needles for leaves alpine – mountain biome, varies widely according to altitude tundra – regions where temperatures are always cool or cold taiga – cold region with thinly scattered with coniferous trees permafrost – a layer of soil just below the surface that stays frozen

Compare the climate map and the biomes map. Are the two maps more similar, or more different?

Bodies of Water 1. Oceans and Seas A. Interconnected body of salt water B. Covers 71% of the earth 2. Lakes, Rivers, and Streams A. Lakes hold over 95% of earth’s fresh water B. Drainage Basin – Area drained by a major river 3. Ground Water A. Water held in the soil or underground B. Ground Water – Water held in the pores of rock C. Water Table – Level at which the rock is saturated

Hydrologic Cycle The continuous circulation of water between the atmosphere, the oceans, and the earth

Ocean Currents move warm and cold water around the earth and effect climate. Global Warming effects the currents and could cause climate change.

Green House Effect & Global Warming